Hello all,

We are having a hard time figuring out which area in Shanghai we want to stay in. We would like something in the center of the action, easily accessible to pedestrian districts, shopping, cafes, and interesting architecture. I would love to hear what has been your favorite and why you like it. Many thanks!

Everybody has their favorites. You do not state your budget. My first few times in Shanghai I stayed at the Marriott at Tomorrow Square. Amazing view (especially if your room is looking towards Nanjing street east). The hotel part is at the top of the building. You are next to the pedestrian street.
But there are many other options such as the hotels on the Bund and those in the Former French Concession. The hotels on the Pudong side are not ideal for a first time tourist.

People's Square. At the intersection of the two most important metro lines for tourists, plus you have the museums, the historic Park Hotel, two of the best soup dumpling shops in Shanghai.

We also stayed at the JW Marriott at Tomorrow Square. The rooms were decent, and the location was excellent. We were within walking distance of most sites. The only drawback is that you have to take two different sets of elevators to get to your room, and you have to walk a bit to get from one set to the other.

My favorite is the former french concession area, it fits all your requirements especially interesting architecture. The equally great area is from the People's Square to the Bund along the River. Both areas have hotels with rates ranging from the deluxe to comfortable.

I have been to Shanghai several times. My current favorite area is the French Concession. The Shanghai Intercontinental Rutin is set on beautiful grounds, a respite in this bustling city. The period buildings are former mansions that served as Stae Guest Houses. Large, beautiful rooms, great breakfast buffets.

I enjoyed staying at the Astor House. It was close to the river and the Bund area and it wasn't too expensive.